Radar EV pickup is poised to change the game in a massive way

RADAR RD6 EV Pickups —PHOTOS BY RONALD DELOS REYES

This is it. The dawn of electric pickup trucks has finally arrived on our local shores.

United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI), the official local distributor of the Radar, an innovative battery electric vehicle and plug-in hybrid business and outdoor lifestyle pickup brand,introduced the vehicle early this last quarter.

Recently, the company held a test drive activity for participants to personally feel and actually experience the newly-launched pickup truck.

“This demo drive was an ideal opportunity to show exactly what sets the Radar RD6 apart,” said Franz Decloedt, Radar brand head.

“The RD6 is much more than just an electrified pickup. It represents a new, practical direction for EVs and PHEVs, combining genuine capability and innovative technology with the real-world comfort and usability that traditional pickups simply cannot match.”

The test drive activity was held at the R33 Driftrack in San Simon, Pampanga.

Here, participants tried the comprehensive test program that included controlled performance evaluations.

The EV pickup awed participants with its instant torque delivery, smooth yet strong acceleration, and car-like riding comfort, demonstrating that electric power can combine performance, versatility, and comfort in a pickup platform.

“The testing site is not your usual pickup testing site. Any pickup can do that like the traditional diesel ladder frame pickup,” he continued.

“This EV pickup is on a monocoque frame and it, in my personal opinion, drives like a car.”

According to him, the BEV model can accelerate from 0-100kph in just 8.2 seconds, while the PHEV can do 7.8 seconds.

Powered by an up to 376hp/485N-m electric motor and offering up to 443 kilometers of range, the fully electric Radar RD6 Econ impressed everyone.

Meanwhile, the Radar RD6 EM-P 4WD plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) cam produce 457hp/659Nm and an impressive 1,000+ kilometers of driving range.

“Since it’s an EV, you get instant torque. It’s also monocoque (unibody), so it can carry and load as much as your regular pickup. Yet, it’s still so comfortable,” he shared.

“One big plus is that the turning radius is so small, not like other pickups. It’s so fuel-efficient, powerful and so cost-efficient. I can go on and go on about the benefits of EV pickups compared to the traditional pickups.”

Furthermore, the exercise demonstrated the RD6’s quiet operation, responsive acceleration, confident handling, and superb riding comfort.

Beyond performance, the RD6’s versatility stood out as a key highlight. Its spacious rear bed and multiple storage compartments demonstrated the vehicle’s utility, while an easy to use Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power output was highlighted.

Inside, its “car-like” features spill over with a modern, premium cabin, along with a large touchscreen interface, intuitive controls, and smart connectivity options..

Per UAAGI, all new Radar RD6 models come with a five-year or 150,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty, whichever comes first.